Many individuals presenting with substance use issues come into my office with impoverished regulatory capacities, poor cognitive functioning, inability to focus, low self-esteem, and problems with interpersonal relationships. According to attachment theory and infant research these characteristics can be indicative of a range of early sub optimal attachment relationships with caregivers. It takes time and work for these individuals as adults to develop the capacity to self-regulate and to engage in healthy relationships, and usually happens over time within the context of community (Jordan, 2018). When I was introduced to kid-grit: THE BOOK, and subsequently the curriculum, I was struck by how the developmental approach embodied in the program was tantamount to attuned, mindful parenting. As children, many of my patients were not taught how to collaborate, make positive decisions, exert impulse control, and especially how to self-regulate. All of which are skills and activities modeled and explored within the Kid-grit philosophy. The methods and philosophy embodied in the Kid-grit program could be used in schools and communities as an intervention for kids already involved in problematic substance use as well as prevention for those at risk. We, as a society, need to pay more attention to our children in order to quell the intergenerational transmission of sub-optimal “being”. Kid-grit makes a profound contribution to this cause.

Judith A. Jordan, PhD. Addiction Counselor and Educator, New York City